Credit Connect

Stafford Railway Building Society has announced the appointment of Michael Smith as its new Chief Executive.

Smith is a highly-experienced professional from the banking sector. For the last 13 years, he has worked for the highly successful Swedish Bank Handelsbanken, contributing to the growth of their branch network in the local area. This built on his earlier career with Barclays Bank PLC. He also served for almost 8 years as one of the Society’s Non – Executive Directors, chairing its Assets and Liabilities and Risk Committees.

James Dean, Chairman of the Society said “The Board of the Society was very keen to ensure that this appointment met all the needs of a demanding role whilst recognising and respecting the enduring values of the Society. We were delighted that Mike proved to be the best candidate in a strong and diverse field. We know that he will ensure that our members are at the heart of all we do. The fact that Mike is a former director of the Society additionally brings continuity to this role and a genuine understanding of what makes the Society successful.”

Smith will replace Susan Whiting who steps down after almost seven years as Chief Executive. She will take over the role of Finance Director from Jeremy Hodgkiss until a new Finance Director is recruited, supporting Mike through the transition.